Paul, the self-described apostle to the Gentiles continues his second letter to the Thessalonians, inviting the new church in the Roman province of Macedonia to live each day with eagerness for the Lord’s return.
The Thessalonian church was made up of young believers who were constantly under attack by the enemy, made of Roman gnostics, Greek philosophers and also lawless Judaizers.
“13 But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, 14 to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14)
Paul expresses his gratitude for God’s predestined plan for the believers in Thessalonica, for them to be saved from damnation through their faith in Jesus Christ.
The apostle explains it is the fulfillment of his mission appointed by God almighty that resulted in the Thessalonians’ salvation through the gospel which he preached, along side Silas and Timothy, his fellow missionaries during their second journey through the region.
“15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.” (2 Thessalonians 2:15)
Again Paul calls on the believers in thessalonica to stand fast, to prepare for the Lord’s return with eagerness and hope brought on by the holy Spirit which dwells within each Christian. As they resist temptation and the abundance of attacks from the enemy, the Thessalonians should rely on the courage and strength found in the gospel, and the examples set by Paul himself and his fellow laborers for Christ.
“16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)
Lifting God’s name in glory, Paul’s hope for the believers in Thessalonica is they will continue to live each day as Christ Himself did, sharing the love and grace of God by witnessing to those who will listen, by answering questions of seekers who have been given hope through the gospel and teaching of anointed missionaries.
All believers should do the same, counting our works as offering to the Lord and relying on God’s promise for rewards on earth, and in heaven where our divine Father awaits. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
